Appendix:Gestures

The gestures below are meaningful expressions produced with parts of the body other than the speech organs. All are used outside of the context of a sign language. Some have specific referents, some emphasize accompanying vocal speech, and some express feelings, including contempt, hostility, approval, and affection.

both hands over face (1. childish, someone counting while playing hide-and-seek; 2. covers the eyes and face, may indicate profound discomfort with what one would see, or some trauma/sadness, hiding one's urge to cry, etc.)

breasts (using the two hands, in a gesture imitating a person holding one's own breasts)